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Giardia

Giardia is also called giardiasis and is a type of gastroenteritis (gastro) caused by a parasite called Giardia Lamblia. Most of the time it's not serious, but, like any gastric illness, resulting diarrhoea can lead to dehydration. Giardia is an illness caused by poor hygiene and is most often found in underdeveloped countries. When travelling, make sure to take reasonable precautions against getting sick.

What causes giardia?

Giardia is caused by a parasite called Giardia Lamblia which enters the body and lives in the intestines. People can pick up the parasite in contaminated food and water, and from infected people. People carry giardia parasites in their poo, and, if they don't wash their hands after using the bathroom, they can spread the infection to other people.

Is giardia serious?

Not usually, but if diarrhoea caused by giardia continues for more than two weeks, your child can become dehydrated.

Can I prevent giardia?

The best prevention is to avoid coming in contact with giardia parasites. Wash your hands, and don't swallow water from pools, lakes, or streams. If your child has giardia, keep her away from school and child care until her symptoms are gone to avoid infecting other people. Giardia spreads quickly in child care environments where a lot of kids might be potty training.

How do I know if my child has giardia?

It can take one to three weeks for your child to get sick after being infected with the giardia parasite. It's often easy to mistake giardia for other gastro illnesses, but your doctor can use a sample of your child's poo to test for the infection. In addition to diarrhoea, your child might also have nausea and vomiting, abdominal cramps and weight loss.

How do I treat giardia?

Giardia is treated with antibiotics. While your child is sick, make sure that she gets lots of rest and fluids to prevent dehydration.

Should I call the doctor?

Always call the doctor if you think your child has giardia. If your child has diarrhoea and/or vomiting that lasts for more than two weeks, or if she shows signs of dehydration, call your doctor right away.

What you need to know about giardia

Giardia is a type of gastro caused by a parasite.

Giardia is found in contaminated food, water, and the poo of infected people.